The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) enthusiastically applauded the passage of Oregons Senate Bill 1547-B, signed into law today by Gov. Kate Brown, and congratulated all of the groups that collaborated to get this landmark legislation across the finish line.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) enthusiastically applauded the passage of Oregons Senate Bill 1547-B, signed into law today by Gov. Kate Brown, and congratulated all of the groups that collaborated to get this landmark legislation across the finish line.

"A 50 percent renewable portfolio standard (RPS) is a huge win for Oregonians and solar power is going to be key in making this win a reality," said Sean Gallagher, SEIAs vice president of state affairs. "Oregon is sending a strong message to the rest of the nation that its time to replace dirty energy with clean, reliable, affordable 21st century solutions, like solar. This is a significant milestone toward addressing Oregons climate goals and we applaud Gov. Brown and every legislative and community leader involved in setting the state on this successful path to a cleaner future."
"Oregon has declared coal persona non grata," noted Jeff Bissonnette, executive director of OSEIA, the states solar trade association. "Building on a massive base of public support, our future lies with solar and other clean energy resources."
Today there are nearly 150 solar companies at work throughout the value chain in Oregon, employing more than 3,000 people, representing manufacturers, contractors, project developers, distributors and installers.
Whats more, from an environmental perspective, solar installations in Oregon are helping to offset more than 105,000 metric tons of harmful carbon emissions a year, which is the equivalent of removing more than 22,000 cars off the states roads and highways, or not consuming 11.8 million gallons of gasoline.

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About SEIA®:

Celebrating its 42nd anniversary in 2016, the Solar Energy Industries Association® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA® is building a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies to champion the use of clean, affordable solar in America by expanding markets, removing market barriers, strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org.
Media Contact:

Alex Hobson, SEIA Press Officer & Communications Manager, ahobson@seia.org (202) 556-2886